The Long Road to Legalize Skating in Gainesville
Since 1988, the slogan "Skateboarding Is Not a Crime" has become a nationwide rallying cry against anti-skateboarding laws.
In Gainesville, the call could soon spark change. The Gainesville City Commission decided on Sept. 11 to start the process of legalizing skating in public parks.
Gainesville Mayor Harvey Ward said city staff will present a draft of the ordinance to the City Commission this fall for further conversation.
Skating in Gainesville public parks has been illegal since 1981, a rule Commissioner Bryan Eastman called “outdated.”
- Currently, skating is only allowed on roads, sidewalks and in designated skate parks.
“Skateboarding isn’t tennis.
During the Sept. 11 commission meeting, Eastman explained skateboarding is a type of transportation and should be used in public parks without penalty.
Author's summary: Gainesville may soon legalize skating in public parks.